A NORTH Ayrshire-based wildlife project has been shortlisted for an RSPB Nature of Scotland Award (NoSA).

Growing for Garnock, run by Garnock Connections and Eadha Enterprises, has been nominated in the Community Initiative Award category.

The project aims to encourage people to engage with their local landscape, whilst educating them about wild flowers, plants and trees.

Around 120 volunteers are involved in the programme which has been running for almost three years.

Peter Livingstone, CEO of Eadha Enterprises said: “This nomination is a big thing because it recognises the hard work that everyone has put in.

“We’re improving the area but we’re also advertising it as somewhere to come for people further afield.”

A range of nature-related work has been carried out since the project started, including the planting of over a thousand trees along the banks of the River Garnock at Groatholm.

Mr Livingstone said lockdown has helped the cause, with more people engaging with their local environment.

He added: “When you look closely, there’s an array of beautiful and interesting plants growing.

“You just need to take the time, stop, and look down.

“It enriches a normal walk that they would normally have when they are able to start observing the wildlife around them.”

The winner of the award will be announced a ceremony hosted by presenter Arlene Stuart on November 17.